UPPER GULL LAKE — Loon calls make up the better part of summertime's soundtrack in Northern Minnesota. But the state's official bird faces increasing threats due to human activity.
Minnesota Loon Rescue is a network of trained volunteers who help injured or sick loons and abandoned loon chicks by transporting them to certified rehabilitation clinics. Sheila Johnston is one of those volunteers and has earned the nickname "The Loon Lady."
"You've caught me at a time when I would say there's way... too much action on our lakes," Johnston said during a recent conversation on the KAXE Morning Show.
Johnston has taken dozens of calls about loon chicks in trouble. Some are beached, some have been found on roads and some seem abandoned by their parents. Adult loons face dangers as well.
While the primary cause of unnatural loon deaths is lead poisoning, boaters can take precautions to protect loons.
"Watch ahead. Slow down. Go around. Always assume loons won't dive out of your way if you're fishing," Johnston said. Jet skis have also had an impact on loon nests.
"So, we love our loons, but we are not doing enough to protect them and to recreate safely in areas where loons live and raise their young."
Listen to our full conversation above!
How are the loons doing in your area? Let us know!
